Alex Dean, founder of the Alexander welcomes you to explore the company's new web site,www.alexandergroup.net.

In our reformatted newsletter, we will providing solutions, case studies and information of interest to metro DC homeowners.

The site features a new design and much cleaner layout and navigation, updated projects page, blog and links to new social media accounts.

What isn't new? The Alexander Group's continued commitment to providing the highest standards as a leading design/build firm in the nation's capital and beyond.

Yes, we're proud that we've received countless awards for our work, but our satisfaction ultimately rests in helping our clients achieve the home of their dreams.

When quality matters, the details count. We invite you to contact us and look forward to sharing ideas, new building projects and regional home events in our new monthly newsletter. Send us your thoughts -info@alexandergroup.net.

Home Remodel: Case Study

I love my neighborhood but hate my house. Help!

Many DC homeowners struggle with homes built on small lots in high density neighborhoods, with limited square footage and interior layouts not suited for today's modern lifestyles.

Dave C, homeowner, contacted the Alexander Group with a preliminary wish list that included his desire for a new master bedroom and bath.

Challenges: Built in the 1930s, Dave's 1595 square foot three-bedroom, three-bath charming brick Tudor cottage in AU Park, Washington DC, NW was in need of additional expansion, repairs and updating.The home's basement, HVAC systems, kitchen and second floor bath remodels had been completed in the 1990s, and a one-story rear addition completed in the 1970's had the potential for a second floor above that would easily accommodate the requested new master bedroom addition with en suite master bath and closet.

The Alexander Group is an authorized dealer and installer for fireplaces designed and manufactured by New Zealand based Escea. The company's sleek, contemporary award winning designs are synonymous with minimalist modernism and sophistication.

Escea fireplaces are designed and manufactured with a range of heat outputs, modern fascia designs, and fuel effects including black and white coals, New Zealand river rock and logs, stones and driftwood.

Fireplaces are available in both natural gas and LPG (propane) and are available in a natural draft, balanced flue (direct vent) and vent free (outdoor only).

As a practical demonstration of Escea's desire to give back to the environment, one tree is planted in a registered carbon sink forest for every fireplace.

The Alexander Group is launching several new social media accounts and invites you to follow us to stay abreast of our activity and news and information of interest to home owners in the capital region.

Launched in 2009, Houzz is a web site and online community devoted toarchitecture,interior design, decorating,landscape designandhome renovation and home improvement. The Houzz platform and mobile appsfeature interior and exterior home photos, articles written by architects, interior designers and home design experts, product recommendations and a user forum.

Houzz integrates everything under one roof (design photos, professional directory, home products, community advice and articles) - with over 35 million unique visitors each month, Houzz has emerged as the leading platform and resource for residential and allied building trade professionals and has established itself as an essential resource for home owners.

The Alexander Group is sad to report that a former valued member of The Alexander Group, Brian Stone, has died.In May 2013, Brian was diagnosed with glioblastoma multiforme grade IV, the most aggressive form of brain cancer. He fought courageously for 18 months.

Brian leaves behind his beloved wife of 15 years, Tiffany Stone and two sons, Dillon and Braedon Stone (12 and 8 years old).A college fund has been set up for his two children. To read more or to donate, www.gofundme.com/gxwtbs

"Brian was a continuously positive person, thoughtful and had a great sense of humor. In true Alexander Group spirit, Brian placed our client's best interests first," says Alex Dean, principal of The Alexander Group. "Two of his greatest attributes were his commitment to outstanding customer service and willingness to do whatever it took to "make it happen." He was an excellent team player, very self-motivated and was an enormously talented individual. He is greatly missed at The Alexander Group and will never be forgotten."